The Build With ICF Podcast

Build With ICF Podcast Episode 77 - Blue Ridge ICF - Firefighter-Turned-North Carolina ICF Builder

Trevor and Heather host Micah Klesick of Blue Ridge ICF to discuss his move from firefighting to ICF construction, focusing on resiliency, energy efficiency, and practical strategies for selling and building with ICF in challenging terrain. The episode covers MST fiberglass rebar, distributor and bracing solutions, CE training and on-site coaching for DIY and pro builders, real project highlights, and lessons from weather events that shaped local demand. Go follow Micah on Instagram Blue Ridge ICF We want to THANK our Partners and "Concrete Sponsors" ICFMA - ICF-MA.org NRMCA - NRMCA.org NAHB - NAHB.org as well as our "Gold Sponsors" - G2 Building Products / Plumwall / MST Fiberglass Rebar G2 Building Products.com And as always if you want to get hold of Heather or Trevor you can email Info@BuildWithICF.com Or @BuildWithICF on all socials. And don't forget to sign up for the World Insulated Concrete Form Association at www.WICFA.org

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 76 - Technical Advise with Jay Michno

Episode 76 features Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown interviewing Jay Mishno of AMC Foam about real-world ICF building: DIY vs. contractor choices, project planning, rebar and engineering guidance, supply-chain realities, and the new Element ICF system. They highlight training resources, technical support, and WICFA’s efforts to grow the industry so listeners can make informed decisions and build safer, more efficient structures with ICF. You can reach out to Jay via email at jay@amcfoam.com or on Instagram @jay_amcfoam We want to THANK our Partners and "Concrete Sponsors" ICFMA - ICF-MA.org NRMCA - NRMCA.org NAHB - NAHB.org as well as our "Gold Sponsors" - G2 Building Products / Plumwall / MST Fiberglass Rebar G2 Building Products.com And as always if you want to get hold of Heather or Trevor you can email Info@BuildWithICF.com Or @BuildWithICF on all socials. And don't forget to sign up for the World Insulated Concrete Form Association at www.WICFA.org

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 75 - Expect the Unexpected

In Episode 75 Trevor and Heather honor late guest Tim Hall, then dive into realistic expectations for ICF and general construction projects. They cover communication best practices, common causes of delays (supply, weather, code changes, subs), advice for homeowners and DIYers, and when to hire pros. The episode also highlights WICFA updates, upcoming events, and practical tips to keep projects on track and reduce stress. We want to THANK our Partners and "Concrete Sponsors" ICFMA - ICF-MA.org NRMCA - NRMCA.org NAHB - NAHB.org as well as our "Gold Sponsors" - G2 Building Products / Plumwall / MST Fiberglass Rebar G2 Building Products.com And as always if you want to get hold of Heather or Trevor you can email Info@BuildWithICF.com Or @BuildWithICF on all socials. And don't forget to sign up for the World Insulated Concrete Form Association at www.WICFA.org

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 74 - Wolven Homes - Air Force Officer to ICF Evangelist: Building Efficient ADUs in San Diego

Two experts in ICF. Decades of experience. One podcast, two hosts with a lot to say. In episode 74 of the Build With ICF podcast, hosts Trevor Brown and Heather Hering Brown sit down with Lance Wolfsmith of Wolven Homes to discuss his transition from the Air Force into ICF construction, the booming ADU market in San Diego, and the efficiencies ICF brings to modern building. Lance shares lessons learned from his first ICF build—delivery and site constraints, coordination with engineers and architects, and the realities of concrete pumping—and explains why ICF is a powerful solution for energy efficiency, soundproofing, and resilient construction. He also outlines Wolven’s mission to streamline the process for homeowners and contractors and invites listeners to connect for ADU projects in Southern California. WolvenHomes.com @Wolven_Homes on Socials Or give him a call 408-710-7302 And as always if you want to get hold of Heather or Trevor you can email Info@BuildWithICF.com Or @BuildWithICF on all socials. And don't forget to sign up for the World Insulated Concrete Form Association at www.WICFA.org

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 73 - Why ICF in NoCal with Michael Smith from Castle House Distributors

Trevor Brown and Heather Hering‑Brown host Michael Smith of Castle House Distributors to discuss how insulated concrete forms (ICF) solve insurance, energy, and resilience challenges after California wildfires. They share personal stories, real insurance savings, and the case for building entire developments in ICF. The episode covers upcoming workshops and trainings, industry unity through WICFA, design and permitting tips, and why ICF is a practical, affordable solution for homeowners, builders, and communities facing modern climate risks. You can contact Michael via email michael@castlehouse.us Or check out their website https://castlehouse.us/ Or on Socials @Castle.House.Distributors And as always if you want to get hold of Heather or Trevor you can email Info@BuildWithICF.com Or @BuildWithICF on all socials. And don't forget to sign up for the World Insulated Concrete Form Association at www.WICFA.org

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 72 — WICFA Takes D.C.: Advocacy, Insurance & ICF Momentum

Episode 72 of the Build With ICF podcast recaps the hosts’ trip to Washington, D.C., the launch and growth of WICFA (World Insulated Concrete Form Association), key industry partnerships with NRMCA, ICFMA and NAHB. They describe the outreach efforts to policymakers and insurers. Trevor and Heather discuss advocacy wins, upcoming events, membership updates, practical benefits of ICF for resilience and affordability, new sponsors and swag, and an upcoming WICFA members meeting with guest speaker Tim Lansford. https://www.timlansford.com/ Check out our Concrete Partners https://www.nrmca.org/ https://www.icfma.org/ https://www.nahb.org/ As always reach out to us at @BuildWithICF on socials or via email Info@BuildWithICF.com

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 71 - R Value of ICF? with Dave Phelps

Hosts Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown welcome ICF expert Dave Phelps of ICF Homes, back to discuss the World Insulated Concrete Form Association launch and real‑world building performance. They debunk R‑value myths and explain how thermal mass, continuous insulation, and design choices impact a home’s energy use and resilience. Topics include R‑value testing limits, HERS and blower‑door metrics, ERVs, radiant slabs and basements, window placement and passive design, and how ICFs can lower operational costs and improve survivability during outages. You can get hold of Dave with any questions via email Dave@ICFHomesofVA Or on IG @ICF_Homes or on YouTube ICF Homes Virginia And as always you can reach us on Socials @BuildWithICF and email Info@BuildWithICF.com

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 70 - Carbon Custom Builders - Sam Fertik

ICF experts Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown welcome a special guest explore why insulated concrete forms are changing luxury homebuilding. Sam Fertik of Carbon Custom Builders shares his journey from chef to custom builder and explains how ICF delivers better air, water, noise control and lasting durability. The episode covers design, client experience, industry innovation, and the new World Insulated Concrete Form Association (WICFA). Follow Sam and Carbon Custom Builders on there socials @CarbonCustomBuilders Or on the World Wide Interwebs CarbonCustomBuilders.com Or Email Sam@CarbonCustomBuilders.com As always, you can reach us @BuildWithICF on socials and Info@BuildWithICF.com JOIN WICFA NOW...... WWW.WICFA.ORG

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Build With ICF Episode 69 How to Join WICFA

In this episode Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown introduce the official launch of The World Insulated Concrete Form Association (WICFA), explain membership options (manufacturers, industry pros, DIYers), and walk listeners through signup, app access, and Founders Club perks. They also outline community features — a monitored code of conduct, a marketplace and job board, events and training, and the Stack Club referral rewards — and invite listeners to join, participate, and help grow the ICF industry. JOIN NOW https://members.wicfa.com/member-application Any Questions?? Info@BuildWithICF.com

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 68 Becoming an ICF Installer

Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown discuss the launch of WICFA and practical steps to become an ICF installer—from online learning and hands‑on training to on‑site experience, certifications, and building relationships with manufacturers. They cover low startup costs, crew-sizing strategies, marketing tips, and industry opportunities, and invite listeners to join the WICFA waitlist and contact BuildWithICF for training and support. Any Questions shoot us an email at Info@BuildWithICF.com or hit us up on Socials @BuildWithICF And don't forget to get on the WICFA Waitlist www.wicfa.org

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 67 - Dave Phelps on Building High-Performance Homes

Two experts in ICF, decades of experience, one podcast: hosts Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown sit down with Dave Phelps of ICF Homes of Virginia. They cover Dave’s journey from physics to custom ICF homes, how content and social media grew his business, DIY and reduced-scope options, the massive ‘castle’ project, thermal mass performance and HVAC sizing, industry advocacy, and the launch of WICFA. Practical insights for builders, DIYers, and anyone curious about insulated concrete form construction. Dave also talks about a really cool program he participates in called 1-4-1 Project that supports those in need of shelter around the world by building one home for a family in need for every one home we build here in the US. Here is the link to learn more The 1-4-1 Project And you can get hold of Dave with any questions via email Dave@ICFHomesofVA Or on IG @ICF_Homes or on YouTube ICF Homes Virginia And as alway you can reach us on Socials @BuildWithICF and email Info@BuildWithICF.com

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 66 - WICFA Pt. 2 - Why Now? And MORE Great Questions

In episode 66 Trevor Brown and Heather Hering Brown answer the top questions about the new World Insulated Concrete Form Association (WICFA), explaining why industry momentum is building now and what sets this association apart. They cover the inaugural founders board, membership tiers (manufacturers, industry professionals, and DIY), the GrowthZone member hub with community pages and a job/bid board, sponsorship options, planned meetings, disaster-response advocacy, and concrete ways listeners can help. Go get on the WAIT LIST!! WICFA.org Any questions?? Send us an email Info@BuildWithICF.com

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 65 - Pow-R-Wall and Rub-R-Wall

Two experts in ICF and decades of field experience come together on the Build With ICF podcast with hosts Trevor Brown and Heather Hering Brown. In Episode 65 Troy Mohr and Andy Hobbs introduce Resilient Building Products — the merger of Pow-R-Wall (formerly Hobbs) and Rub-R-Wall — and discuss innovative ICF systems, reduced concrete contour walls, integrated waterproofing, and strategies to speed and simplify foundation construction. They cover distribution and logistics, applicator training and support, the benefits of panelization, and how these solutions fit rising energy codes and the needs of builders seeking durable, efficient, and resilient foundations. Links and contact info are provided in the show notes for follow-up. Check them out at Pow-R-Wall.com and Rub-R-Wall.com Or shoot them an email at tmohr@rubrwall.com and ahobbs@powrwall.com As always follow us on social @BuildWithICF.com and email us at Info@BuildWithICF.com with any show questions or idea for new episodes.

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 64 ICF Pool King: Aaron King with All 3 Pools

Join hosts Trevor and Heather Brown as they sit down with Aaron "Pool King" King, an ICF expert who transformed from builder to award-winning ICF pool master. With decades of experience, Aaron shares his journey into ICF pools, lessons learned, and why monopours and proper training matter. The hands-on pioneer. With a finance degree in real estate from Missouri State University, Aaron has built more than 100 ICF pools across the Midwest and Gulf Coast since first working with ICF in 2013–2014. He is the driving force behind monopour ICF pool construction, with signature projects including the Condor Infinity Edge Pool, Shaw Hollow Infinity-Edge Pool, and Dauphin Island Beach Pool. His work has earned multiple top honors from ICF Builder Magazine and the People’s Choice Award at World of Concrete. Follow his builds on our ICF Guru YouTube channel. This episode also covers practical how-to advice for DIYers and builders, innovations in pool finishes and materials, and resources like AllThreePools.com and ICF Guru — plus a look at the new World Insulated Concrete Form Association (WICFA) and the future of ICF construction. Reach out to Aaron on YouTube www.youtube.com/@all3pools Email him at aaron.king@all3pools.com And as always hit us up at Info@BuildWithICF.com or @BuildWithICF on Socials and get on the WICFA Wait List https://wicfa.org/

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 63 World Insulated Concrete Form Association Launch: Building a Unified Voice for ICF

Two ICF experts and podcast hosts, Trevor Brown and Heather Hering Brown, announce the launch of the World Insulated Concrete Form Association (WICFA). The episode outlines WICFA’s mission to promote, protect, and advance ICF through advocacy, education, industry collaboration, directories, certified installer training, member forums, discounts, and events. The hosts explain membership tiers, pricing, Founders Club perks, plans for lobbying and PACs, partnerships with manufacturers, continuing education credits, and upcoming events like World of Concrete. They invite listeners to join the waitlist at WICFA.org Contact us at info@BuildWithICF.com or @BuildWithICF on socials

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 62 IBS ReCap and Stories from the Road

Hosts Trevor Brown and Heather Hering Brown recap an action-packed month covering live trainings, trade shows, and on-site experiences from Indiana to the Florida Keys. They announce the formal launch of the World Insulated Concrete Form Association (WICFA), discuss industry advocacy through NAHB, share lessons from diverse job site builds (including Amish communities and a hurricane-rated car museum), and preview upcoming guests and projects. Episode 62 highlights networking wins, ICF adoption across different markets, and how community involvement and associations can drive industry growth. Sign up for the WICFA Waiting List at WICFA.org Reach out to us at Info@BuildWithICF.com and @BuildWithICF on Socials.

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 61 World of Concrete Recap

Two experts in ICF — Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown — recap their World of Concrete experience, industry buzz, and product discoveries from decades of hands-on work in ICF installation, drafting, and design. The episode highlights new tools, plan books tailored to block manufacturers, manufacturing and accessory innovations, and personal show stories and shout-outs to builders, distributors, and vendors they met. Listeners’ top questions are addressed, including termite and rodent concerns, adding ICF safe rooms to existing homes, and structural GFRP updates; practical solutions and product suggestions are shared. They also discuss building industry connections, the idea of an associate ICF association, upcoming events and classes, and how to reach the Build With ICF team for plans, referrals, or questions. Follow us @BuildWithICF and email us at Info@BuildWithICF.com

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 60 - World of Concrete 2026 Preview

Two ICF experts with decades of experience—Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown—share quick, practical tips for getting the most out of World of Concrete. From using the show app and planning booth visits to making supplier connections, what to expect, and must-see events like the ICF Builder Awards. Download the app, bring comfortable shoes, and plan your show to touch blocks, meet reps, and discover new products. See you at North Hall!

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Build With ICF Podcast Episode 59 - 2025 Year In Review

In this episode hosts Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown recap 2025 and the 20 NEW episodes that were produced and launched. From episode 39 about trade shows to the latest podcast with Hulk Waterproofing they hit the highlights of the year. They also take time to thank YOU the listener for all the shout outs and help promoting The Build With ICF Podcast on other platforms. Thank you ALL and here's to an amazing 2026!!

Build With ICF Podcast Episode 58 Hulk Waterproofing Part 2

ICF experts Trevor Brown and Heather Hering-Brown host a deep-dive interview with Brandon and Nikki from Hulk Systems Waterproofing. They revisit Hulks core waterproofing system, the unique textile-reinforced composite, and real-world benefits like elasticity, eco-safety, and ease of application for ICF foundations and unfinished basements. The guests also discuss Hulks expanding distributor and dealer network, product evolution (including cementitious and roofing coatings), international growth plans, and ambitious fireproofing developments aimed at protecting structures in extreme conditions. Follow Hulk @HulkSystems on IG and @HulkSystems966 on YouTube and www.HulkSystems.com And come see them at the International Builders Show 2026 in Orlando, Florida Booth #TBD as well as the Resilient City Show Booth #RC530 And as always Follow Us @BuildWithICF on socials and www.BuildWithICF.com

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